BR112020021285B1 - RECONFIGURABLE SYNERGISTIC TRAFFIC INTERSECTION - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a traffic intersection and traffic guidance system thereof, which has an intersection region where two highways intersect and a distal intersection zone that allows vehicles that are turning to the right (in a road with left-hand traffic) cross to the right side of the road, a distance from the intersection. In this way, a separate phase for turning right is not required by traffic lights at the intersection, and vehicles turning right can turn at the same time as a vehicle moving straight through the intersection or turning left. The right-turn lane approaching the distal crossing zone from a distal side of the distal crossing zone is located on the far left, allowing vehicles in the straight lane to continue to move in a straight line.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to a traffic intersection, a system for directing traffic and a method thereof.

[002] The invention was developed primarily for use at/in connection with traffic intersections and traffic flow on congested highways and will be described below with reference to this application. However, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[003] Increasingly larger cities across the world have led to increased traffic congestion. Larger highways are being designed and built, with more lanes on them, to handle an ever-increasing number of vehicles.

[004] However, where these larger highways intersect, each with many lanes, the flow of traffic can be disrupted by a long period of waiting at traffic lights. This is typically caused by road users having to wait for all the various combinations and permutations of signals to be processed for cars, pedestrians and bicycles approaching from different sides, and which are turning in many different directions and/or going straight.

[005] These long waiting times can create additional congestion on busy highways.

[006] Furthermore, traffic flowing in any particular direction (eg, in or out of a city center) can vary widely depending on the time of day.

[007] It should be understood that if any prior art information is mentioned in this document, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[008] The invention seeks to provide a traffic intersection, a system for directing traffic and a method for the same that will overcome or substantially improve at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or at least provide an alternative.

[009] According to a first aspect, it can be said that the invention consists of a traffic intersection comprising a. an intersection of at least two multilane highways, at least one of the highways including at least three or more closely spaced lanes of traffic; B. an intersection region where the intersection roads overlap; w. at least one of the intersecting roadways comprising a proximate region in which each roadway approaching the intersection defines a plurality of traffic lanes in which vehicles are traveling, the traffic lanes including: 1. one or more selected from a. a straight-going lane to guide vehicles approaching the intersection region to move straight through the intersection on the same highway; and b. a left-turn lane to guide vehicles approaching the intersection region to turn left at the intersection onto an intersection highway; 2. at least one receiving lane to receive vehicles moving from the intersection region to the intersection road; and 3. at least one right-turn lane to guide vehicles approaching the intersection region to turn right at the intersection onto the intersection road; B. wherein the right-turn lane is spaced from said at least one or more selected straight-going lane and left-turn lane by at least the receiving lane; w. a distal crossover zone, distal from the proximal region; d. at least one approach lane configured to guide vehicles approaching the distal intersection zone into at least one right-turn lane; It is. wherein the at least one approach lane is located to the left of most lanes of traffic.

[0010] According to another aspect, it can be said that the invention largely consists of a traffic intersection located at an intersection of two multilane highways, at least one of the highways comprising at least three or more traffic lanes spaced adjacent to each other, the traffic intersection comprising: f. an intersection region where the surface area of the intersecting roads overlap; g. a proximate region in which each roadway approaching the intersection defines a plurality of traffic lanes in which vehicles are traveling, including: i. at least one right-turn lane to guide vehicles to turn right at the intersection towards the intersecting road; ii. at least one receiving lane for receiving vehicles moving into the region close to the intersection region; iii. at least one receiving lane to go straight to receive vehicles moving straight through the intersection; H. where the right-turn lane is configured to separate from the straight lane in the near region when crossing through a distal crossing zone, so that vehicles traveling straight through the intersection in an opposite direction along from the same road are guided to move between the lane to turn right and the lane to go straight into the receiving lane to go straight; Hey. wherein at least one of the at least one of the distal right-turn lanes of the distal crossing zone is located leftmost of the traffic lanes.

[0011] In one embodiment, the receiving lanes include a receiving lane to go straight to receive vehicles moving through the intersection region on the same highway.

[0012] In one embodiment, the distal crossing zone includes at least one or more traffic lights to guide the movement of vehicles in the lane to turn right over the crossing zone.

[0013] In one embodiment, at least one of the intersecting highways comprises five lanes, and at least one or more of the lanes to go straight from that highway is configured as a reconfigurable lane in which the vehicles' direction of travel is reversible.

[0014] In one embodiment, the at least one or more reconfigurable lanes include a signaling device configured to signal the direction of travel of the reconfigurable lane.

[0015] In one embodiment, at least one of the reconfigurable lanes includes reconfigurable parking lanes that are reconfigurable as vehicle parking.

[0016] In one embodiment, at least one or more reconfigurable parking lanes are spaced intermediate a pair of reconfigurable lanes.

[0017] In one embodiment the straight ahead lanes are configured to guide vehicles along the intersection in a straight line to said at least one or more straight ahead receiving lanes.

[0018] In one embodiment, the nearby region further comprises at least one or more left-turn lanes configured to guide vehicles to turn left at the intersection towards the intersection highway.

[0019] In one embodiment, the neighboring region comprises a plurality of left-turn lanes and at least one of the left-turn lanes is reconfigurable as a parking space.

[0020] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection comprises signaling devices configured to signal whether the left-turn lanes are currently configured as a traffic lane or parking space.

[0021] In one embodiment, the nearby region comprises a plurality of right-turn lanes, and at least one of the right-turn lanes is reconfigurable as a parking space.

[0022] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection comprises signaling devices configured to signal whether the left-turn lanes are currently configured as a traffic lane or parking space.

[0023] In one embodiment, the left-turn lane is configured to guide vehicles to turn from the left-turn lane of one of the intersecting highways to a straight receiving lane on the other of the intersecting highways.

[0024] In one embodiment, at least one or more selected from the left turn lane and the straight lane lanes are configured to terminate staggered adjacent to the intersection region to thereby allow space for a turn zone proximal crossing.

[0025] In one embodiment, at least one of the intersecting highways comprises a plurality of straight lanes that terminate in a staggered manner adjacent to the intersecting region, so as to allow space for the proximal crossing zone, the proximal crossing zone being configured to allow vehicles turning from one lane to turn right in the intersection region of a variety of routes passing pedestrians crossing the roadway the proximal intersection zone is on.

[0026] In one embodiment, the near region defines a left turn combination and a proximal intersection zone is disposed adjacent a left turn combination and straight lane is configured to receive vehicles moving straight through from the intersection, thus allowing vehicles to move straight through the intersection to pass left-turning vehicles from the left-turn and straight lane combination.

[0027] In one embodiment, the highway with the proximal crossing zone is a four-lane highway.

[0028] In one embodiment, the distal crossing zone is configured to guide vehicles to make a U-turn.

[0029] In one embodiment, at least one or more selected from the left turn lanes and the straight lanes are configured to end staggered adjacent to the intersection region to thereby allow room for the turn zone proximal crossing.

[0030] In one embodiment, the proximal crossing zone is configured substantially triangularly.

[0031] In one embodiment, the proximal crossing zone is configured to allow vehicles to turn from one lane to turn right at the intersection roadway, a variety of passing lanes passing pedestrians who are crossing the roadway in which the zone of proximal crossing is.

[0032] In one embodiment, each of the straight receiving lanes is configured to guide vehicles to the distal crossing zone to allow vehicles to move straight through the intersection region to cross the distal crossing zone.

[0033] In one embodiment, the straight lane in the nearby region is also configured as a left turn lane to guide vehicles to turn left in the intersection region to the intersection road.

[0034] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection comprises visual signaling devices configured to safely direct vehicles on roads through the intersection region.

[0035] In one embodiment, the visual signaling devices are operable in one of only two modes of operation.

[0036] In one embodiment, each of the visual signaling devices are operable in a run condition and a stop condition.

[0037] In one embodiment, each of the visual signaling devices are operable in a run condition, a stop condition and a slow condition.

[0038] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection visual signaling devices are operable together in two phases.

[0039] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection visual signaling devices are operable together in three phases.

[0040] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection visual signaling devices are operable together in a number of phases equal to the number of road pairs approaching the intersection, or parts thereof.

[0041] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection visual signaling devices are operable together in a number of phases equal to the number of road pairs approaching the intersection or parts thereof, plus one.

[0042] In one embodiment, visual signaling devices are configured to direct pedestrians on at least one of the roads in the nearby region.

[0043] In one embodiment, the nearby region further comprises at least one receiving turn lane configured to receive and guide one or both selected from a) vehicles turning right at the intersection highway; and b) vehicles turning left on the intersecting road.

[0044] In one embodiment, the near region comprises a plurality of lanes for receiving turn.

[0045] In one embodiment, the right-turn lane is configured to diverge from the other lanes in the near region when crossing the distal crossing zone, so that the right-turn lanes to guide vehicles moving straight through the lane intersection on the opposite side extend between the right-turn lane and the straight- ahead lane.

[0046] In one embodiment, the straight-going lanes and the straight-going receiving lanes of at least one highway on opposite sides of the intersection region are aligned in a straight line.

[0047] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection comprises at least one or more intermediate visual signaling arrangements configured to visually signal one or more selected of a vehicle and a bicycle in the near region approaching the distal crossing zone.

[0048] In one embodiment, the intermediate visual signaling devices are configured to safely direct vehicles approaching the near region and the distal region through the distal crossing zone.

[0049] In one embodiment, the intermediate visual signaling devices are traffic lights.

[0050] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection comprises a plurality of bicycle lanes.

[0051] In one embodiment, the bicycle lanes are configured to extend along at least one of the roadways adjacent to the side of the roadway.

[0052] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection defines pedestrian crossings configured to guide pedestrians on at least one of the intersection roadways.

[0053] In one embodiment, the distal crossover zone is distal to the intersection region and the proximal crossover zone is closer to the intersection region.

[0054] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection comprises at least one or more intermediate lanes extending between the distal crossing zone and the proximal crossing zone.

[0055] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes a region distal to the intersection zone distal to the intersection region.

[0056] In one embodiment, the distal region includes at least one approach lane for vehicles approaching the traffic intersection.

[0057] In one embodiment, the distal region includes at least one exit lane for vehicles leaving or moving away from the traffic intersection region.

[0058] In one embodiment, at least one of the approach lanes is a right-turn approach lane for vehicles intending to turn right at the intersection to an intersection highway.

[0059] In one embodiment, at least one of the approach lanes is a straight approach lane configured to guide vehicles in a straight line over the intersection on the same highway.

[0060] In one embodiment, at least one of the approach lanes is a combination straight and left turn lane configured to guide vehicles to turn left at the intersection or move straight through the intersection.

[0061] In one embodiment, at least one of the approach lanes is a left-turn approach lane configured to guide vehicles to turn left at the intersection.

[0062] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes at least one or more bicycle lanes extending along at least one of the intersecting highways.

[0063] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes a bicycle receiving lane to receive bicycles that have crossed the intersection region.

[0064] In one embodiment, the bicycle receiving lane extends between the right-turn lane and the receiving lane in the nearby region.

[0065] In one embodiment, the bicycle receiving lane extends along the distal crossing zone.

[0066] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes at least one visual signaling device to signal the bicycle receiving lane as it approaches the distal crossing zone from the intersection.

[0067] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes an approach lane for bicycles to guide them to approach the intersection region.

[0068] In one embodiment, the bicycle approach lane extends adjacent to the side of the intersection road.

[0069] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes at least one or more bicycle waiting zones in the intersection region.

[0070] In one embodiment, the bicycle waiting zones are located next to a central island in the intersection region.

[0071] In one embodiment, bicycle holding zones are located around the periphery of a central island in the intersection region.

[0072] In one embodiment, bicycle holding zones are located around the periphery of the intersection region.

[0073] In one embodiment, the bicycle approach lane is divided into one or more selected from: j. a bicycle lane to turn left k. a bicycle lane to turn right l. a lane for bicycles to move in a straight line; m. a U-bend bike lane.

[0074] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes at least one visual signaling device to signal bicycles in the approaching bicycle lane as they approach the intersection region.

[0075] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection comprises at least one or more bus stop bays located adjacent to the distal intersection zone.

[0076] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes pedestrian lanes that run along the sides of at least one of the highways.

[0077] In one embodiment, the bicycle lanes are configured to join the pedestrian walkway distally from the distal crossing zone.

[0078] In one embodiment, at least one of the bicycle lanes is reconfigurable as vehicle parking.

[0079] In one mode, the lane for turning left is reconfigurable as vehicle parking.

[0080] In one embodiment, the lane for bicycles to move in a straight line is reconfigurable as parking for vehicles.

[0081] According to another aspect, it can be said that the invention largely consists of a traffic guidance system for deployment at a traffic intersection as described above, the traffic guidance system comprising n. at least one or more visual signaling devices configured to display guidance signals for vehicles on both intersecting roadways, including displaying guidance signals for vehicles turning through oncoming traffic flow; O. a control system configured to control the operation of visual signaling devices to thereby guide vehicles to move safely through the intersection and the distal crossing zone.

[0082] In one embodiment, the control system is configured to control the operation of visual signaling devices in one of two configurations.

[0083] In one embodiment, the control system is configured to control the operation of visual signaling devices in one of three configurations.

[0084] In one embodiment, the three configurations of the visual signaling devices include a green signal, a red signal, and an amber signal.

[0085] In one embodiment, the control system is configured to control the operation of visual signaling devices in two phases.

[0086] In one embodiment, the control system is configured to control the operation of visual signaling devices in: a. a first phase in which vehicles in lanes to go straight across an intersection highway are signaled to move straight through the intersection; and b. a second phase in which vehicles in lanes to go straight on this intersection road are signaled to stop.

[0087] In one embodiment, the two phases are: a. a first phase in which all vehicles along one of the intersecting roads are signaled to move straight through the intersection and turn from the road they are on, into the intersecting road, while all vehicles are prevented from crossing the distal crossing zone to move to the lane to turn left; B. a second phase in which all vehicles along the other of the intersection roadways that are moving straight and/or turning right and/or turning left are signaled to stop in the intersection region, while vehicles in the far lane to turn on the right are signaled to move over the distal intersection region to the proximal right turn lane.

[0088] In one embodiment, the control system is further configured to control the operation of the visual signaling devices in a. a third phase in which all vehicles that are moving along both intersecting roadways are stopped and one or more selected from pedestrians and bicycles are signaled to cross the intersecting roadways, while vehicles in the far lane to turn on the right are signaled to move over the distal intersection region to the proximal right turn lane.

[0089] In one embodiment, the control system is configured to control the operation of visual signaling devices in two subphases.

[0090] In one embodiment, the two sub-phases to the first phase include: a. a first sub-phase in which vehicles in the lane to turn left on one of the intersecting roads are signaled to stop and vehicles in the lane to turn right on an opposite side of the same intersecting road are signaled to proceed; and b. a second subphase in which vehicles in the left-turn lane of one of the intersecting roadways are signaled to proceed, and vehicles in the right-turn lane on an opposite side of the same intersecting roadway are signaled to stop.

[0091] In one embodiment, the control system is configured to control the operation of the visual signaling devices in the first subphase to also control: a. Bicycles in the bicycle lane to turn left are signaled to follow, and bicycles in the bicycle lane to move straight that are moving straight through the intersection are signaled to follow.

[0092] In one embodiment, the control system is configured to control the operation of the visual signaling devices in the second subphase to also control: a. bicycles in the bicycle lane to turn left are signaled to stop and bicycles in the bicycle lane to move straight are signaled to stop.

[0093] In one embodiment, the control system is configured to control the operation of visual signaling devices in the distal crossing zone.

[0094] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the visual signaling devices during the first subphase of the first phase to make vehicles in the approach lanes to go straight and/or combination approach lane to move on the distal crossing zone.

[0095] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control visual signaling devices during the first subphase of the first phase to cause vehicles in the receiving lane to cross the distal crossing zone.

[0096] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control visual signaling devices during the first sub-phase of the first phase to cause bicycles in the U-bend bicycle lane to stop.

[0097] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control visual signaling devices during the second subphase of the first phase to cause vehicles in the approach lane to go straight and/or in the combination approach lane to stop.

[0098] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the visual signaling devices during the second subphase of the first phase to cause vehicles approaching the distal crossing zone in the receiving lanes to stop.

[0099] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control visual signaling devices during the second subphase of the first phase to make vehicles in the approach lane to turn right that approach the distal crossing zone follow.

[00100] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control visual signaling devices during the first subphase of the second phase to make vehicles in the approach lane to turn right that approach the distal crossing zone follow.

[00101] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control visual signaling devices during the first subphase of the second phase to cause the U-curve bicycle lanes to stop.

[00102] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the visual signaling devices during the first subphase of the second phase to make vehicles approaching the distal crossing zone in the receiving lanes pass through the distal crossing zone.

[00103] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the visual signaling devices during the second subphase of the second phase to cause vehicles in the approach lane to go straight and/or combination approach lane to stop before the zone distal crossing.

[00104] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the visual signaling devices during the second subphase of the second phase to make vehicles in the receiving lanes stop before the distal crossing zone.

[00105] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the visual signaling devices during the second subphase of the second phase to cause vehicles in the approach lane to turn right to move through the distal crossing zone.

[00106] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control visual signaling devices during the second subphase of the second phase to cause bicycles in the bicycle receiving lane to stop before the distal crossing zone.

[00107] In one embodiment, when the controller is configured to control the visual signaling devices to signal vehicles in the lanes to go straight to stop for the second phase, the controller is controlling the visual signaling devices for the lane for curve bicycles U-shape to make the bike make U-turns near the intersection region.

[00108] In one embodiment, when the controller is configured to control the visual signaling devices to signal vehicles in the lane to go straight to stop for the second phase, the controller is controlling the visual signaling devices for the lane to turn right to follow.

[00109] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes at least one or more reconfigurable lanes that are reconfigurable to travel in opposite directions and the control system is configured to control the operation of at least one or more visual signaling devices to reverse the flow direction of a reconfigurable track.

[00110] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the visual signaling devices that control the movement of vehicles in the reconfigurable lanes correlated with the straight lane that are moving in the same direction as intended by the reconfigurable lanes.

[00111] In one embodiment, at least one of the reconfigurable lanes includes reconfigurable parking lanes that are reconfigurable as vehicle parking, and the control system is configured to control the operation of at least one or more visual signaling devices to stop the movement along reconfigurable parking lanes.

[00112] In one embodiment, at least one or more reconfigurable parking lanes are spaced intermediate a pair of reconfigurable lanes.

[00113] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes a bicycle exit lane that extends distally from the distal intersection zone.

[00114] In one embodiment, the bicycle exit lane extends adjacent to one side of the highway.

[00115] In one embodiment, at least one of the lanes is reconfigurable as vehicle parking and the control system is configured to control the operation of at least one or more bicycle visual signaling devices.

[00116] In one mode, the lane for turning left is reconfigurable as vehicle parking.

[00117] In one embodiment, the lane for bicycles to move in a straight line is reconfigurable as parking for vehicles.

[00118] According to another aspect, the present invention can be said to consist of a traffic intersection located at an intersection of two multilane highways, at least one of the highways comprising at least three or more traffic lanes spaced adjacent to each other , the traffic intersection comprising: a. an intersection region where the surface area of the intersecting roads overlap; B. an adjacent region in which each roadway approaching the intersection includes a plurality of traffic lanes in which vehicles are traveling, including: i. at least one right-turn lane to guide vehicles to turn right at the intersection onto the intersecting highway; ii. at least one lane to go straight to guide vehicles to move straight through the intersection on the same highway; and iii. at least one receiving lane for receiving vehicles moving into the region close to the intersection region; iv. where the right-turn lane is configured to separate from the near-straight lane when crossing through a distal intersection zone, so that vehicles traveling straight through the intersection in an opposite direction along the intersection highway are guided to move between the right-turn lane and the straight-going lane in the straight-going receiving lane; w. the surrounding region further including at least one bicycle lane, including: 1. a bicycle receiving lane extending between the right-turn lane and the receiving lane.

[00119] In one embodiment, the proximate region includes a plurality of bicycle lanes.

[00120] In one embodiment, the near region includes a bicycle approach lane to guide bicycles approaching the intersection region in the near region.

[00121] In one embodiment, the receiving lanes include a receiving lane to go straight to receive vehicles moving through the intersection region on the same highway.

[00122] In one embodiment, the traffic intersection includes a bicycle exit lane that extends distally from the distal intersection zone.

[00123] In one embodiment, the bicycle exit lane extends adjacent to one side of the highway.

[00124] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00125] Notwithstanding any other forms that may be within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[00126] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a traffic intersection of a six-lane highway that crosses a six-lane highway, with vehicles moving in both directions on each highway with the visual signaling devices being in a first phase;

[00127] Figure 2 shows a schematic view of the first embodiment of a traffic intersection of a six-lane highway that crosses a six-lane highway, with vehicles moving in both directions on each highway with the visual signaling devices being in a second phase;

[00128] Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the first embodiment of a traffic intersection of a six-lane highway that crosses a six-lane highway, with the reconfigurable lanes in a second configuration and with the visual signaling devices being in a first phase;

[00129] Figure 4 shows a schematic view of the first embodiment of a traffic intersection of a six-lane highway that crosses a six-lane highway, with the reconfigurable lanes in a second configuration and with the visual signaling devices being in a second level;

[00130] Figure 5 shows a schematic view of a first embodiment of a traffic intersection of a six-lane highway crossing a six-lane highway, showing a control system operating the visual signaling devices in a third phase in which the vehicles are prevented from crossing the intersection region while pedestrians are crossing, with vehicles in the distal right-turn lane being signaled to cross the distal intersection zone for the proximal right-turn lane and/or perform a U-turn;

[00131] Figure 6 shows a schematic view of a second embodiment of a traffic intersection of a five-lane highway crossing a four-lane highway, with the center lane of the five-lane highway being a reconfigurable lane;

[00132] Figure 7 shows a schematic view of a third embodiment of a traffic intersection of a ten-lane highway crossing a six-lane highway, with vehicles moving in both directions on each highway, and with signaling devices visual in a first phase, and the reconfigurable tracks being in a first configuration;

[00133] Figure 8 shows a schematic view of a plurality of traffic intersections of a six-lane highway crossing six lane highways, forming a block;

[00134] Figure 9 shows a schematic view of the third embodiment of a traffic intersection of a ten-lane highway crossing a six-lane highway, with the leftmost left-turn lane and the rightmost right-turn lane being reconfigurable as parking spaces;

[00135] Figure 10 shows a schematic view of a fourth embodiment of a traffic intersection of a ten-lane highway crossing a six-lane highway, with vehicles moving in both directions on each highway, with visual signaling devices in a first phase, with a single left-turn lane on each of the intersecting roads, and including a buffer at the intersection for each left-turn lane;

[00136] Figure 11 shows a schematic view of the fourth embodiment of a traffic intersection shown in Figure 10, with visual signaling devices in a second phase;

[00137] Figure 12 shows a schematic view of a fifth embodiment of a traffic intersection including six intersection highways showing a first stage and a first substage of the traffic guidance system;

[00138] Figure 13 shows a schematic view of the fifth embodiment of a traffic intersection in a first phase and a second subphase of the traffic guidance system;

[00139] Figure 14 shows a schematic view of a sixth embodiment of a traffic intersection, including two four-lane intersection highways showing the left-turn lane during a sub-phase of the traffic guidance system;

[00140] Figure 15 shows a schematic view of the traffic intersection of Figure 14, showing the lane to turn right during another sub-phase of the traffic guidance system;

[00141] Figure 16 shows a schematic view of a seventh embodiment of a traffic intersection, including two six-lane intersecting highways and an additional six-lane highway ending at the intersection, in a first phase and a first subphase;

[00142] Figure 17 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 16 in a first phase and a second subphase;

[00143] Figure 18 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 16 in a second phase;

[00144] Figure 19 shows an eighth embodiment of a traffic intersection, including two three-lane intersection highways, in a first phase;

[00145] Figure 20 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 19 in a second phase;

[00146] Figure 21 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 19 in a third phase;

[00147] Figure 22 shows the interrelationship of a pair of traffic intersections in Figure 19;

[00148] Figure 23 shows a block of intersections from Figure 19, each intersection on a separate phase; It is

[00149] Figure 24 shows a ninth embodiment of a traffic intersection, including two three-lane intersection highways, in a first phase.

[00150] Figure 25 shows a tenth embodiment of a traffic intersection, including a four-lane highway crossing a six-lane highway in a first subphase of a first phase;

[00151] Figure 26 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 25, in a second subphase of a first phase;

[00152] Figure 27 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 25, in a first subphase of a second phase;

[00153] Figure 28 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 25 and a second subphase of a second phase;

[00154] Figure 29 shows an enlarged view of Figure 27;

[00155] Figure 30 shows an eleventh embodiment of a traffic intersection, showing a six-lane highway crossing a six-lane highway in a first subphase of a first phase;

[00156] Figure 31 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 30, showing a second subphase of a first phase, but with the reconfigurable lane moving in an opposite direction;

[00157] Figure 32 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 30, showing a first subphase of a second phase;

[00158] Figure 33 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 30, showing a second subphase of a second phase;

[00159] Figure 34 shows a close-up view of Figure 31;

[00160] Figure 35 shows a twelfth embodiment of a traffic intersection, showing a six-lane highway crossing a six-lane highway in a first subphase of a first phase;

[00161] Figure 36 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 35, showing a second subphase of a first phase;

[00162] Figure 37 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 35, showing a first subphase of a second phase;

[00163] Figure 38 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 35, showing a second subphase of a second phase;

[00164] Figure 39 shows a thirteenth embodiment of a traffic intersection, showing an eight-lane highway that crosses an eight-lane highway;

[00165] Figure 40 shows an enlarged view of the intersection of Figure 39;

[00166] Figure 41 shows a fourteenth embodiment of a traffic intersection, showing an eight-lane highway that crosses an eight-lane highway;

[00167] Figure 42 shows an enlarged view of the intersection of Figure 41;

[00168] Figure 43 shows a schematic view of an eight-lane highway from a traffic intersection, including a pair of right-turn lanes and a pair of left-turn lanes, with one of the right-turn lanes and one of the left-turn lanes being used as a parking space;

[00169] Figure 44 shows a schematic view of an eight-lane highway, with all right-turn lanes and left-turn lanes being used for traffic;

[00170] Figure 45 shows a fifteenth embodiment of an eight-leg traffic intersection, showing four eight-lane intersection highways in a first phase; It is

[00171] Figure 46 shows the traffic intersection of Figure 45 in a second phase;

[00172] Figure 47 shows a schematic view of a sixteenth embodiment of a traffic intersection, showing a four-lane highway crossing a four-lane highway, including a pedestrian walkway bicycle lane;

[00173] Figure 48 shows an enlarged view of Figure 47;

[00174] Figure 49 shows an enlarged view of the four-lane highway in Figure 47;

[00175] Figure 50 shows an enlarged view of the four-lane highway in Figure 47;

[00176] Figure 51 shows a schematic view of a six-lane highway, including a pedestrian walkway bicycle lane;

[00177] Figure 52 shows a schematic view of a four-lane highway including a reconfigurable bicycle parking lane;

[00178] Figure 53 shows a schematic view of a five-lane highway, including a reconfigurable parking lane and reconfigurable lanes that are also reconfigurable bicycle lanes;

[00179] Figure 54 shows a schematic view of a six-lane highway, including a reconfigurable parking lane and reconfigurable lanes that are also reconfigurable bicycle lanes;

[00180] Figure 55 shows a schematic view of a seven-lane highway including a reconfigurable bicycle parking lane and reconfigurable lanes that are also reconfigurable parking lanes;

[00181] Figure 56 shows a schematic view of an eight-lane highway, including a reconfigurable bicycle parking lane and reconfigurable lanes that are also reconfigurable parking lanes;

[00182] Figure 57 shows a schematic view of a nine-lane highway, including a reconfigurable bicycle parking lane and reconfigurable lanes that are also reconfigurable parking lanes;

[00183] Figure 58 shows a schematic view of a ten-lane highway, including a reconfigurable bicycle parking lane and reconfigurable lanes that are also reconfigurable parking lanes;

[00184] Figure 59 shows a schematic view of an eleven-lane highway, including a reconfigurable bicycle parking lane and reconfigurable lanes that are also reconfigurable parking lanes;

[00185] Figure 60 shows a schematic view of a twelve lane highway including a reconfigurable bicycle parking lane and reconfigurable lanes that are also reconfigurable parking lanes; It is

[00186] Figure 61 shows a schematic view of a seventeenth embodiment of a traffic intersection, showing a six-lane highway crossing a four-lane highway.

DESCRIPTION OF MODALITIES

[00187] It should be noted in the following description that the same or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar characteristics.

TRAFFIC INTERSECTION

[00188] For purposes of explaining the present invention, the intersections and traffic guidance systems of the present invention will be described with reference to traffic laws that require vehicles to circulate on the left side of the highway. However, it will be appreciated that the invention can be carried out effectively at intersections and using traffic guidance systems operational in countries where vehicles travel on the right hand side of the road, replacing any reference to the word "right" with the word "left". , and any references to the word "left" with the word "right" and mirroring the figures shown.

[00189] In an embodiment now described with reference to the figures, a traffic intersection 1000 is provided. The traffic intersection 1000 is located at an intersection of two multilane highways 1100. Each highway comprises a plurality of traffic lanes, as will be described in more detail below. Each traffic lane is spaced adjacent to the other, possibly allowing for safety barriers and/or pedestrian islands between them.

[00190] The traffic intersection 1000 comprises an intersection region 1200, where the surface area of the intersection highways 1100 substantially overlap, and the nearby region 1300 which is located close to the intersection region 1200 The nearby region 1300 includes a lane to turn right 1310 to guide vehicles to turn right at the intersection onto the intersecting highway 1100. The nearby region 1300 further includes a straight lane 1320 for guidance vehicles to move straight through the intersection onto the same highway 1100. Distally of the proximal region 1300, the traffic intersection comprises a distal intersection zone 1400. Distally from the distal intersection zone 1400 is a distal region 1600. The distal region 1600 includes at least one approach lane, as described below, for vehicles that approaching the traffic intersection, and at least one exit lane 1630 for vehicles leaving or away from the traffic intersection. It will be appreciated that, between an intersection 1000 and the next intersection 1000, an exit lane will become an approach lane.

[00191] In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 5, one of the approach lanes is a right-turn approach lane 1610. This is used by vehicles wishing to turn right at the intersection to an intersection highway 1100. Another of the lanes approach is an approach lane to go straight 1620, which is used by vehicles wishing to travel straight along the intersection on the same highway 1100. Exit lanes are generally referenced by 1630. It is anticipated that, in certain modes, by For example, as shown in Figures 19 through 23, a single approach lane combination 1615 can be provided for vehicles intending to turn right at the intersection, go straight into the intersection, or turn left at the intersection. In the embodiment shown in Figures 14 to 15, a single right-turn lane 1610 is provided, along with a combination of straight lane and left-turn lane 1617. The use of the various combinations described above will depend on the number of lanes available to be used on each 1100 intersection highway.

[00192] In the near region 1300, and as shown in Figures 1 to 18, a dedicated left turn lane 1330 is provided to guide vehicles to turn left from a highway to an intersection highway. However, this may not always be the case, as shown in Figures 19 to 24, where a combination of straight lane and left turn lane 1325 is shown.

[00193] The neighboring region 1300 further comprises one or more receiving lanes 1340 to receive vehicles moving straight over the intersection region 1200 from an opposite side and, preferably, to receive vehicles turning left or right from the Intersection highway to the next region 1300.

[00194] It is anticipated that the receiving lanes 1340 will also be used to receive vehicles that have crossed the intersection region 1200 after turning left from the intersection road 1100, as well as to receive vehicles that have crossed the intersection region 1200 after turning right from intersection highway 1100.

[00195] It is important to note that the traffic intersection 1000 is configured to guide vehicles in the approaching right-turn lane 1610 to move into a right-turn lane 1310 when crossing the distal intersection zone 1400. The turn lane to the right 1310 is disposed separately from the straight-going lane 1320 in the near region 1300. The receiving lanes 1340 for guiding vehicles that have traveled through the intersection region 1200 will guide vehicles moving away from the intersection region 1200 towards the distal intersection zone 1400. Receiving lanes 1340 extend between the right turning lane 1310 and the straight going lane 1320, but with the vehicles being guided to move in an opposite direction.

[00196] Vehicles traveling away from the intersection region 1200 will be guided by the receiving lane 1340 to the distal intersection zone 1400, where they will cross directly over the distal intersection zone 1400, preferably in a straight line. Vehicles approaching the distal intersection zone 1400 from both directions will be guided by a traffic guidance system 3000, including visual signaling devices 3100 and a controller 3200. Likewise, vehicles approaching the intersection region 1200 will be guided by visual signaling devices 3100, as will vehicles approaching the distal crossing zone 1400 from the distal region 1600.

[00197] Vehicles approaching the distal crossing zone 1400 moving towards the intersection region 1200, wishing to turn right on the intersection road, will be guided by visual signaling devices 3100, such as a traffic light to yield to vehicles in the receiving lanes from the intersection region 1200. Once it is safe, vehicles will cross the distal intersection zone 1400 to move into the far right lane of the multilane highway.

[00198] All vehicle lanes described in which vehicles are in transit (ie not parked) are referred to as traffic lanes.

[00199] It is important to note that the approach lanes for vehicles to be guided to turn right at the intersection are located in most lanes of traffic on the left as they approach the distal intersection zone 1400 from the distal region 1600. additional right-turn approach lanes 1610 are required, they are located in lanes adjacent to most left-hand traffic lanes as they approach the distal intersection zone 1400 of the distal region 1600. An example of this is shown in Figure 7 Other approach lanes distal to the distal intersection zone 1400 are aligned adjacent to right-turn approach lanes 1610. This lane configuration preferably allows vehicles that are moving straight through the intersection to remain on a straight roadway, without the need to staggered swaths and movement between staggered swaths.

[00200] As shown in the Figures, allowing vehicles moving straight through the intersection to remain on a straight roadway also allows one or more of the lanes moving straight through the intersection on the same roadway 1100 to be reconfigurable lanes 1370 to guide traffic in one of two directions. This will allow for more traffic to flow in a specific direction at different times of the day (eg during rush hour when most traffic is moving away from the city). It is envisioned that the reconfigurable lanes 1370 will preferably relate to or be associated with the straight lanes 1320, although it is envisaged that, in a less preferred embodiment (not shown), the left turn lanes 1330 or the right-turn lanes 1310 can also be reconfigured as straight-going lanes 1320. Reconfigurable lanes that are leaving the intersection distally from the distal crossing zone are therefore considered as approach lanes and exit lanes 1630 at different times.

[00201] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 7 and 9, it is anticipated that the left-turn lanes 1330 and/or the right-turn lanes 1310 and/or the right-turn approach lane 1610 can be reconfigured such as parking lanes at specific times of the day when it is convenient to do so. This is illustrated in Figure 9, where 5000 vehicles are shown parked in the left-turn lane and the right-turn lane proximally of the distal intersection zone. Such reconfiguration of left-turn lanes and/or right-turn lanes would normally only occur where multiple such lanes are provided.

[00202] It is envisaged that adequate visual signaling devices 3100 are provided to ensure that vehicles do not travel in the wrong direction in the reconfigurable lanes 1370. It is also anticipated that the controller 3200 can be configured to change the configuration of the reconfigurable lanes 1370 to different times of the day, or in response to changing traffic conditions, such as the presence of roadworks or the presence of a roadblock, such as an accident. It is further envisaged that a single traffic guidance system 3000 can control multiple controllers relating to a plurality of traffic intersections 1000 to thereby facilitate improved traffic flow.

[00203] The traffic intersection 1000 further includes pedestrian crossings 2000 that are preferably configured to guide pedestrians to cross each of the intersection roadways on both sides of the intersection region 1200.

[00204] It is anticipated that where a dedicated left-turn receiving lane 1342 is provided, to receive left-turning vehicles at the intersection, the traffic intersection may include one or more barriers or bumpers 1210, as shown in Figures 10 and 11. Buffers 1210 are located within the intersection region 1200 and are configured to prevent vehicles in the right-turn lane from becoming the receiving lane into which vehicles in the left-turn lane are turning from one opposite side of the intersection. It is envisioned that a barrier or buffer 1210 may be in the form of a wall, curb, bollard, or similar highway barrier. It is further envisaged that the dampers 1210 may be movable, for example to be moved at different times of the day. In addition to the security provided, the dampers 1210 are also expected to prevent vehicle headlights from blinding vehicles in the intersection region 1200 at night.

[00205] It will be appreciated that 1210 shock absorbers can only be used where there are sufficient lanes for left turning vehicles and right turning vehicles on the intersecting roadway. For example, the dampers could not be used in the modality shown in Figure 14, where left-turning and right-turning vehicles from the intersecting road are received in the same receiving lane.

[00206] In addition to the barriers, it is anticipated that the receiving lane 1340, which will be used to receive left-turning vehicles, can be configured to have a greater width, to facilitate the prevention of the collision of two vehicles that turn to the left Adjacent receiving lanes 1340 at the same time from the right-turn lane and the left-turn lane of intersecting highways.

[00207] It is also expected that traffic intersection 1000 will not need to be configured with reconfigurable lanes. In the embodiment shown in Figures 14 and 15, a traffic intersection 1000 is shown which does not include reconfigurable lanes, but still includes a right turn approach lane that stops at the distal intersection zone 1400 of the distal region 1600 in the right turn lane. leftmost traffic on highway 1100.

[00208] It is further envisaged that at least one of the receiving lanes 1340 may be guided to a pair of output lanes 1630 as they transit over the distal crossover zone towards the distal region 1600. An example of this is shown in Figures 14 and 15.

[00209] In the embodiment shown in Figures 19 to 23, a traffic intersection comprising two intersection highways with three lanes each is shown. In this embodiment, the middle lane of each roadway in the proximal region 1300 is used as a receiving lane 1340 and guides vehicles away from the intersection 1000 in each direction. It is envisaged that, in this embodiment, three separate phases of visual signaling devices will be used to guide vehicles through the traffic intersection 1000. This is discussed in more detail below. In the embodiments shown in Figures 19 to 23, vehicles moving in the receiving lanes 1340 away from the intersection region 1200 are guided by visual signaling devices 3100 as they approach the distal intersection zone 1400, and will only be permitted for crossing the distal crossing zone 1400 when vehicles in the right-turn lane are not moving through the distal crossing zone into the right-turn lanes 1310 in the proximal region 1300. Vehicles are guided from the receiving lane 1340 to two outgoing swaths 1630 as they cross the distal crossover zone 1400. As seen in Figure 22, the two outgoing swaths 1630 are then merged back into a single combination approaching the approach swath 1615 as the distal crossing zone 1400 of the next intersection 1000 is approached. This will provide space for bus stops, ride sharing, loading and parking zones, etc. In this way, traffic flow through the intersection, using a small number of traffic phases, can be provided.

[00210] Another embodiment of a traffic intersection comprising two intersecting highways of three lanes each are shown in Figure 24. In this embodiment, each of the receiving lanes 1340 in the proximal region 1300 guides vehicles to move away from the region of intersection 1200. However, this embodiment is not preferred, as vehicles approaching the distal intersection zone 1400 are moving in an opposite direction and in the same lane as vehicles in the receiving lane 1340 moving away from the region intersection region 1200. While vehicles departing the intersection region 1200 in the receiving lane would be guided by visual signaling devices, this is not a preferable scenario.

[00211] In the embodiment shown in Figures 22 and 23, a pair of approach tracks is guided to merge into a single combination of approach tracks 1615, as shown in Figure 22.

[00212] Lastly, in the embodiment shown in Figures 19 to 24, bicycle lanes 1350 are provided to guide bicycles along intersecting highways 1100. It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that bicycle lanes 1350 are optional for any modality.

[00213] It will be appreciated that in any of the embodiments in which the vehicles are guided to turn in the rightmost right-turn lanes 1310, the vehicles can also be guided to perform a U-turn in the distal crossing zone 1400.

[00214] By way of explanation, the resettable tracks 1370 in Figures 25 through 46 are shown having a "ying-yang" symbol as an indication of their dual nature.

[00215] In the embodiments shown in Figures 25 to 44 and shown in clearer detail in Figures 43 and 44, a different configuration of bicycle lanes is shown in the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 25. The bicycle lanes extend along the intersecting highways and includes a bicycle receiving lane 1380 in the proximal region for receiving bicycles (not shown) that have crossed the intersection region 1200, either turning from an intersection highway 1100 or directly crossing the intersection region on a line line, as will be described in more detail below.

[00216] As shown in Figures 25 to 47, the bicycle receiving lane 1380 extends between the right-turn lane 1310 and the receiving lane 1340 in the near region 1300. The bicycle receiving lane 1380 extends to the distal crossing zone 1400, and a bicycle egress lane 1640 extends distally from the distal crossing zone, with bicycles moving from bicycle receiving lane 1380 to bicycle egress lane 1640 along the receiving zone. distal crossing. Exit lane 1640 preferably extends adjacent to one side of a highway 1100.

[00217] In addition, the traffic intersection 1000 includes an approaching bicycle lane 1390 to guide bicycles approaching the intersection region. Bicycle approach lane 1390 is preferably located adjacent to one side of a roadway 1100.

[00218] It will be appreciated that bicycles crossing the distal crossing zone 1400 of the bicycle receiving lane 1382 and the bicycle exit lane 1640 may cross the path of vehicles that may be moving about the distal crossing zone 1400 at direction to the intersection region 1200 from the approach lane to turn right 1610 to the lane to turn right 1310. For this reason, provision is made for the traffic intersection to include visual signaling devices in the form of traffic lights for signaling bicycles on the tracks. More specifically, visual signaling devices 3100 will be provided to bicycles approaching the distal intersection zone 1400 in the bicycle receiving lane 1380, as well as bicycles approaching the intersection region 1200 in the bicycle approach lane 1390.

[00219] As the approach lane for bicycles 1390 approaches the intersection region 1200, it may split into several smaller lanes (which may be provided with their own visual signaling device), including a lane for turning left for bicycles 1392, a right-turn lane for bicycles 1394, a straight lane for bicycles 1396, and a lane for U-turn bicycles 1398, as shown in Figure 43.

[00220] In the embodiments shown in Figures 25 to 44, four bicycle waiting zones 1230 are provided in the intersection region 1200. The bicycle waiting zones 1230 are provided for bicycles that wish to turn right at the intersection to wait until the subphase is changed to a configuration where they are able to move in the direction they are turning. The subphase where the bicycles are waiting in the bicycle waiting zones 1230 would preferably be a subphase that coincides with a phase that allows the vehicles to move straight through the intersection along the intersecting road into which the bicycles are turning. . This will be explained in more detail below.

[00221] In the embodiments shown in Figures 25 to 29 and 35 to 40, the bicycle waiting areas 1230 are provided close to a central island 1220 centrally located in the intersection region 1200, arranged around the periphery of the island 1220. Note that the central island is not an island in the traditional sense where it can be raised, and vehicles circulate around it. The island 1220 is preferably a set of ground markings denoting a central region where vehicles are expected to pass directly through the intersection moving straight on the same highway. Bicycle staging areas 1230 are then configured to be adjacent to center island 1220 so that bicycles are not in the way of vehicles while waiting in bicycle staging areas 1230.

[00222] In the embodiments shown in Figures 30 to 34 and 41 and 42, the bicycle waiting areas 1230 are provided around the periphery of the intersection region 1200. As will be clear, the bicycle waiting areas are also out of the way of vehicles directly crossing the intersection in the same phase.

[00223] In the embodiment shown in Figures 47 to 51, the configuration of the lanes is subtly different in relation to the length of a pedestrian walkway 2100 that extends along the sides of the highways 1100. The receiving lane for bicycles 1380 in the nearby region 1300 is the same as that shown in Figures 25 to 44, however, distal to the distal crossing zone 1400, the bicycle lanes (referenced 1382 in Figures 47 to 51) extend along the shoulder of the highway in the same area as a footbridge or path 2100 would be. An advantage of this configuration is that, in contrast to the embodiment shown in Figures 25 to 44, the bicycle lanes will not remove a lane from highway 1100 (two bicycle lanes normally constitute the width of a single highway lane). This configuration also has positive implications for the safety of cyclists.

[00224] In the embodiments shown in Figures 52 to 61, the traffic intersection 1000 allows for greater parking opportunities in off-peak periods. In the embodiment shown in Figure 52, both the left-turn bicycle lane 1392 and the straight-go bicycle lane 1396 are reconfigurable into a reconfigurable lane 1399 that provides off-peak vehicle parking spaces. When bicycle traffic volumes are low, the right-turn bicycle lane 1394 can be used by bicycles that are turning left, going straight or turning right.

[00225] In the embodiments shown in Figures 53 to 61, one or more of the reconfigurable lanes 1370 are also configured as reconfigurable parking lanes 1372 that can be reconfigured as vehicle parking, preferably during peak hours. Preferably, one or two reconfigurable parking lanes 1372 are spaced between a pair of reconfigurable lanes 1370, thereby allowing vehicle access to individual parking spaces.

TRANSIT GUIDANCE SYSTEM

[00226] It is envisaged that the traffic intersection 1000 will be equipped with a traffic guidance system 3000 comprising a controller 3200 that is configured to connect and control visual signaling devices 3100, preferably in the form of traffic lights. It is further envisioned that the controller may be connected to cameras 3300 configured to relay a view of the distal crossing zones 1400 and/or the crossing region 1200 and/or the proximal crossing zones 1500 to a control center (not shown) . By being able to view and record traffic in these areas, police and emergency vehicles can be quickly dispatched to ensure that crossing zones are kept clear and clear of vehicles, to allow traffic to flow even in the event of an accident or similar.

[00227] Preferably, at least one visual signaling device 3100 will be provided for each of the lanes to turn right, lanes to go straight, lanes to turn left and/or combination of lane to go straight and lane to turn left (where applicable) on each side of the intersection region 1200. Visual signaling devices 2100 will further be provided for lanes approaching the distal intersection zone. The visual signaling devices 3100 can, in addition to being configured for vehicle signaling, be configured for pedestrian signaling at pedestrian crossings 2000.

[00228] In a preferred embodiment, the visual signaling devices 3100 are, together, preferably operable in one of three configurations. The configuration is expected to include a green signal (go), a red signal (stop) and an amber signal (slow in preparation to stop), as known in conventional traffic lights.

[00229] However, the visual signaling devices 3100 will also be controlled by the controller 3200 to operate on two main phases, with an optional third phase being possible. Each of the two main phases can also be subdivided into two subphases.

[00230] In a first of the main phases, vehicles moving straight through the intersection will be directed to proceed, and vehicles turning left and right at intersection road 1100 will also be directed to proceed at some stage during the main phase.

[00231] In a second of the main phases, vehicles moving straight through the intersection will be guided to stop before the intersection region, while vehicles turning left and right at the 1100 intersection highway will also be directed to stop.

[00232] During the first subphase of the first main phase, left-turning vehicles will initially be stopped before the intersection region, and bicycles in the approach lane for bicycles 1390 on the same side of the intersection will be guided to proceed, while vehicles turning right from the opposite side of the intersection will be directed to proceed. Vehicles turning right from the opposite side of the intersection are more likely to see left-turning bicycles in the left-turn lane for bicycles 1392. Simultaneously, while left-turning bicycles may proceed, bicycles proceeding straight from the lane to go straight for bicycles 1396 will be signposted to proceed. Bicycles in the right-turn lane for bicycles 1394 will also be guided to proceed to the relevant bicycle holding zone 1230.

[00233] In this way, bicycles are prevented from being accidentally knocked over by vehicles turning left, since vehicles turning left would be crossing the path of bicycles moving straight or turning right, and the probability of collisions would be bigger.

[00234] During the second subphase of the first main phase, bicycles in the approach lane for bicycles 1390 will be stopped, while vehicles in the left-turn lane for bicycles 1330 will be signaled to proceed. Simultaneously, vehicles on an opposite side of the intersection in the right-turn lane will be signaled to stop. In this regard, it is pointed out that bicycle waiting zones 1230 are provided at a location in the intersection region 1200, where bicycles wishing to turn right are allowed to move into the intersection region during a first main phase and wait out of the way of vehicles directly crossing the intersection. The bicycles are then guided to proceed to turn right at the start of the second main stage, when vehicles directly crossing the intersection on the highway that crosses the highway the bicycles turned from, begin to move.

[00235] In Figures 1 to 24, the integration of bicycle lanes with the traffic intersection 1000 and the traffic guidance system 3000 is not considered, and traffic control is described in terms of the main phases and subphases, and with reference to reconfigurable lanes 1370. A first main phase is shown in Figure 1, in which vehicles traveling in the North-South direction on one of the intersection highways are visually signaled by visual signaling devices to follow, while vehicles traveling in the East-West direction on the other of the intersecting roads are visually signaled by the visual signaling devices to stop. In Figure 1, the reconfigurable lanes 1370 are configured to allow greater north and eastbound vehicle flow on each of the intersecting highways.

[00236] In Figure 1, vehicles that turn left and/or right on an intersection road to move in the east direction (shown as E1 and E2 in Figure 1) are guided by the traffic guidance system to turn in times simultaneous. This is because enough lanes in the form of receiving lane 1340 as well as reconfigurable lanes 1370 are available to receive at least two lanes from vehicles turning onto that highway. However, vehicles that turn at the intersection to move west (shown as W1 in Figure 1) only have a single receive lane 1340 available to receive vehicles they turn. Therefore, the traffic guidance system will be configured to operate the visual signaling devices 3100 in separate subphases, so that only one of the right or left turning lanes is operated at a time to move to the receiving lane 1340 from the highway moving east.

[00237] At the same time, the visual signaling devices 3100, signaling the pedestrian crossings 2000 that cross the intersection highway where the vehicles were signaled to follow, will signal for pedestrians and/or bicycles crossing that highway to stop.

[00238] However, the visual signaling devices 3100, signaling those pedestrian crossings 2000 that cross the intersection road where the vehicles have been signaled to stop, will signal pedestrians and/or bicycles respectively to follow.

[00239] At the intersection road where the vehicles have been signaled to stop, the visual signaling devices 3100 will signal vehicles in the lane to turn right to proceed through the distal crossing zone 1400 to the proximal lane to turn right 1310 .

[00240] When the visual signaling devices 3100 have signaled vehicles on an intersection highway to move over the intersection region 1200, then the visual signaling devices that signal vehicles approaching the distal intersection zone 1400 will cause these vehicles stop.

[00241] A second main phase of visual signaling devices for the same intersection is shown in Figure 2. The configuration of the visual signaling devices will be substantially opposite to the first phase described above, with all vehicles and pedestrians that were previously signaled to stop , then being signaled to follow, and vice versa.

[00242] In Figure 2, vehicles traveling in an east-west direction on one of the intersection highways are visually signaled by visual signaling devices to follow, while vehicles traveling straight in a north-south direction are signaled to stop. Again, it can be seen that vehicles turning left and/or right on an intersecting road to travel north (shown as N1 and N2 in Figure 2) are simultaneously signaled to turn, while vehicles turning at an intersection highway to travel south (shown as S1 in Figure 2) are signaled to move in an alternating subphase.

[00243] Another phase of the same intersection is shown in Figure 3, in which the reconfigurable lanes 1370 are configured to allow increased flow of vehicles towards the south and west on each of the intersection roads. In this configuration, as there is a greater number of lanes capable of receiving vehicles that turn from the north-south highway to the westbound highway, the traffic guidance system allows vehicles that turn left and/or right in lanes westbound (shown as W1 and W2 in Figure 3) move simultaneously. However, vehicles turning on the intersecting road to travel east only have a single receiving lane 1344 to receive turning vehicles. Consequently, vehicles turning left are first signaled to move into the receiving lane traveling eastwards in a first subphase (shown as E1 in Figure 3), while in a second subphase (not shown), vehicles turning right to move in the receiving lane traveling east are signaled to move.

[00244] The same intersection is shown in Figure 4, with the reconfigurable lanes allowing even greater traffic direction in the west and south direction, but showing the traffic lights configured in a second phase, in which vehicles moving in a straight line over the vehicles traveling in a straight line over the intersection in a north-south direction are signaled to stop. As enough lanes are available to accommodate vehicles turning left and/or right on a southbound highway (shown as S1 and S2 in Figure 4), vehicles are signaled to turn simultaneously. It is still preferable for vehicles to turn left and right simultaneously to travel in the same direction, which has a lane spacing between them. Vehicles turning left and/or right on the northbound road have only a single receiving lane and are therefore signaled to move in alternating subphases (shown as N2 in Figure 4).

[00245] A reference to a first phase and second phase of the visual signaling devices on the time scale of phases of individual traffic lights takes into account the predetermined direction of the reconfigurable bands 1370, as if they were constant, with the reconfiguration of the reconfigurable bands 1370 taking place on a larger time scale during the day as described above.

[00246] A visual signaling device 3100 is provided to signal at least one distal lane to turn right 1310 distally from the distal crossing zone to guide vehicles to cross the distal crossing zone to move into the lane to turn right 1310 proximally of the distal crossing zone 1400. In addition, visual signaling devices are provided to signal all other lanes of traffic crossing the distal crossing zone in either direction.

[00247] In addition, visual signaling devices are preferably provided for each of the traffic lanes to guide vehicles to cross the intersection region 1200.

[00248] It is envisaged that visual signaling devices will be provided to signal vehicles if they can start crossing the intersection region 1200. In addition, visual signaling devices can be provided to indicate whether a lane of traffic can be accessed at from the intersection region. This is especially useful for vehicles turning into an intersecting road, where the driver of the vehicle may not be sure which direction the reconfigurable lanes are set to.

[00249] An example of another phase or configuration (which may be applicable to any of the modalities) is shown in Figure 5, in which the visual signaling devices will signal to all vehicles on both intersection roads to stop moving move over the intersection region 1200, while pedestrian crossings 2000 on both intersection highways will be signaled to proceed. It is anticipated that during this phase, vehicles approaching the distal crossing zone in the right-turn lane distally from the distal crossing zone will be guided to cross the distal crossing zone to move into the proximal turning lane. on the right. Vehicles approaching the distal crossing zone from either side in the other lanes of traffic will be guided to a stop.

[00250] For use at the traffic intersection 1000 described above, the visual signaling device 3100 for guiding vehicles in the lane to turn right 1310 will preferably be distanced from the visual signaling device 3100 that signals for the lane to go straight 1320 in at least two vehicle spacings, as the right-turn lane 1310 will be spaced from the straight lane 1320 by at least one lane of the receiving lane 1340.

[00251] As mentioned earlier, it is anticipated that a combination of going straight and turning left can be provided. Accordingly, the relevant visual signaling device 3100 can be configured to signal vehicles to turn left at intersection road 1100 as well as proceed straight through intersection region 1200.

[00252] In a preferred embodiment, the controller is configured to control the operation of the 3100 visual signaling devices in three configurations to alternate between a red or stop condition, green or follow condition, and amber or slow condition. However, the controller will also be configured to control all visual signaling devices together to operate on a plurality of phases as described.

[00253] The controller preferably comprises a processor (not shown) configured to receive instructions from the digital storage medium, as well as digital storage medium configured to store digital instructions (not shown). The controller can be configured to receive instructions over a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN), such as the Internet or similar. The controller (not shown) is preferably connected or connectable to the visual signaling devices 3100 via a network 3400. The network 3400 can be a wireless or wired network.

[00254] In an alternative embodiment, it is envisaged that the controller can be located remotely and be connected to the visual signaling devices 3100 via a long-distance or wide-area network. The wide area network can be the Internet, although this is not preferred.

[00255] The digital instructions are preferably in the form of software that is stored on one or more digital storage media (not shown) such as a hard drive, a server core or a cloud-based storage server.

[00256] It is further envisioned that a centralized controller can control visual signaling devices 3100 at a plurality of traffic intersections 1000, to thereby allow traffic to flow at more optimal levels through a plurality of traffic intersections 1000. would include control of visual signaling devices to allow reversal of traffic direction in lanes 1370 reconfigurable to account for increased traffic in any particular direction at different times of day.

[00257] In this way, traffic congestion caused by vehicles turning along the flow of traffic (e.g. in right-turn lanes) is dissipated by the moving area in which vehicles cross each other's paths at a distance away from the intersection region 1200.

[00258] Although each visual signaling device 3100 can be operated in two or possibly three configurations (i.e., red, green, and amber), for each given configuration for the reconfigurable tracks, it is anticipated that the plurality of visual signaling devices 3100 at each traffic intersection 1000 will be controlled by the controller to be operable together in a number of phases equal to the number of intersecting roads (or parts thereof where a road ends at the intersection), plus one. For example, where two intersecting highways are shown in Figures 1, 2 and 5, the plurality of visual signaling devices 3100 will be operable in a first stage as shown in Figure 1, a second stage shown in Figure 2 and a third stage , allowing pedestrian crossing, as shown in Figure 5. The number of overall phases is significantly less than the phases that would be required for traffic intersections commonly known from the prior art.

[00259] It is further considered that, in an alternative modality, the lanes for turning left and lanes for turning right on opposite sides of a first road, which would be turning on the same second road to move away from the intersection in the same direction, do not need to be directed to turn on that highway at the same time. Instead, vehicles in the left and right lanes on opposite sides may turn during separate subphases during the main phase, while vehicles in the straight lanes are moving through the intersection. These are considered to be "sub-phases" separate from the main phase, while vehicles moving in a straight line through the first road intersection are in motion. In this way, turning vehicles, which are vehicles that are turning into the same receiving lane or the adjacent receiving lane, are less likely to collide.

[00260] By way of example, and as shown in Figures 14 and 15, it is expected that the time during which the vehicles move in a straight line is considered the "main phase". In the modality shown in Figures 14 and 15, during the main phase, while vehicles passing straight through the intersection receive the green light to move for 40 seconds, vehicles turning left (shown as arrow L in Figure 14) from from the left lane will receive the green light to turn left into the receiving lane 1340 for 20 seconds, then vehicles turning right (shown as arrow R in figure 15) from the right lane will receive the green light to turn right into receiving lane 1340 for 20 seconds.

[00261] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, it is provided that where reconfigurable lanes 1370 are provided, the controller 3200 will ensure that the reconfigurable lanes are always controlled so that one lane is provided to receive left-turning vehicles, one lane is provided for right-turning vehicles, and preferably another lane is provided between them. Alternatively, when there are not enough lanes available to provide a lane to receive each of the vehicles in the left-turn and right-turn lanes, the controller will ensure that the left-turn and right-turn lanes are received in the left-turn and right-turn lanes. receive lane 1340 into separate subphases.

[00262] A traffic intersection according to the present invention is even well suited to increase traffic flow through intersections where more than two intersecting highways meet. For example, three intersecting roads lined up are shown in Figures 12 and 13, one phase would be required for each pair of roads leading to the intersection, plus an optional additional pedestrian phase. In another embodiment (not shown), where five roads approach the intersection, the number of phases required would be three (ie one phase for each pair of roads, or part of a pair), plus an optional phase for pedestrians. Figure 12 shows the traffic guidance system in a first phase, with lanes for turning left and turning right in a first subphase, allowing vehicles from one of the highways to approach the intersection to turn left and/or on the right. Figure 13 shows the traffic guidance system in the same first phase, with the lanes to turn left to turn right in a second subphase, combining vehicles from the opposite road approaching the intersection to turn left and/or right.

[00263] A set of four intersecting highways, each highway eight lanes wide, is shown in Figures 45 and 46. A separate stage is shown in each figure. It will be understood that using a traffic intersection according to the invention, even a complex intersection like this can be controlled to move in just four phases.

[00264] In another embodiment shown in Figures 16 to 18, two intersecting highways 1100 and an additional highway 1100 that ends at the intersection are shown, allowing traffic to flow in three phases. Each of the three phases is shown in separate Figures. As shown in Figure 18, the road that ends at the intersection is treated the same as a road that extends into the intersection, however, roads that would be used to cross the intersection are directed to turn left or right. In this way, three phases can be used in a relatively complex intersection, where normally, more than eight phases would be used by state-of-the-art intersections. It is always envisaged that, in addition to the phases during which vehicular traffic can flow, a separate optional phase can be provided during which the flow of vehicles along the intersection region 1200 is stopped and pedestrians and/or bicycles are signaled to stop. follow.

[00265] In the embodiment shown in Figures 19 to 23, where the intersection of highways with three lanes is provided, it is envisaged that a different set of signaling phases can be used by the traffic guidance system 3000. Three separate phases are shown in Figures 19 to 21. In a first major phase shown in Figure 19, vehicles moving straight through the intersection in a north-south direction and turning right on the highway aligned in a north-south direction are signaled to move. In a second main phase shown in Figure 20, vehicles in either lane to turn right at the intersection are signaled to move. In a third main phase shown in Figure 21, vehicles moving straight through the intersection in an east-west direction and turning to the right of the east-west aligned roadway are signaled to move. In addition, a pedestrian-only stage can be optionally provided, as shown in Figure 23, along with the other stages.

[00266] An alternative modality is shown in Figure 24, showing two intersection highways with three lanes each. In this embodiment, a left-turn and straight-go lane combination 1325 is provided from which vehicles can either travel through the intersection on the same highway or turn left at an intersection highway. The center lane of each of the highway's three lanes are receiving lanes 1340 that guide vehicles away from the intersection region 1200.

[00267] Distally from the distal crossing zone 1400, an approach lane for turning right 1610 is provided, as well as an approach lane combination for turning right and going straight. Approach right lane and go straight lane combination 1617 directs vehicles to the combination of straight lane and left turn lane as they cross the distal intersection zone 1400. Receiving lane 1340 directs vehicles vehicles moving away from the intersection region 1200 into an exit lane 1630. The exit lane 1630 then splits into a right-turn approach lane 1610 and a left-turn approach lane combination 1610 and a left-turn approach lane 1610 1617 as it approaches the distal crossing zone of the next 1000 intersection.

[00268] In this way, it is anticipated that time delays spent waiting for various turn settings to be presented to guide vehicles that turn into the traffic flow will be reduced, allowing for increased time intervals (meaning a lower proportion of time spent with the vehicle stationary or accelerating from a stop) and traffic flow along highways will be less congested.

[00269] In the embodiments shown in the Figures, the lanes for turning to the right 1310 and the lanes for turning to the left 1330 preferentially guide the vehicles to be received in the receiving lanes 1340 that also function as receiving lanes for vehicles going straight through of the intersection at the other of the intersecting highways 1100 when the visual signaling devices 3100 are in a different configuration.

[00270] In addition, the left-turn lane 1330 is also configured to guide vehicles turning from the left-turn lane of one of the intersecting roadways to a receiving lane 1340 on the other of the intersecting roadways.

[00271] Preferably, the left-turn lane 1330 and the straight-ahead lanes 1320 are configured to terminate adjacent the intersection region 1200 in a staggered manner, leaving room for a substantially triangular-shaped proximal crossover zone 1500 that is disposed adjacent to the intersection region 1200. The proximal intersection zone is configured to allow vehicles to come from a right-turn lane 1310 or a left-turn lane 1330 on the intersecting highway to the receiving lanes 1340 of the other highway of intersection, a variety of paths around pedestrians who are crossing the highway on which the proximal crossing zone 1500 is.

[00272] In a preferred embodiment, a separate stage would be provided for pedestrians to cross, however this is not necessarily required. For example, pedestrians may be guided to cross a roadway by the relevant pedestrian visual signaling devices during a phase when vehicles are not guided directly through the intersection on that roadway, and preferably when vehicles are guided to turn left or turn right on that highway. This is because the expected flow of traffic on the road that pedestrians cross would be less.

[00273] In the embodiment shown in Figures 19 to 24, where a three-lane intersection highway with another highway, then normally a combination of straight lane and left turn lane 1325 is provided as the leftmost approach lane of the intersection region 1200.

[00274] Where, for example, a traffic accident or other emergency has happened at or near the 1200 intersection region, it is anticipated that the 1000 traffic intersection will still allow vehicles to turn right or left, thus avoiding a stop complete in traffic. Where an emergency situation or the like has caused traffic flow to come to a complete stop in the intersection region 1200, or region proximal to the distal intersection zone 1400, it is anticipated that the distal intersection zone 1400 will allow vehicles to make U-turns to allow traffic to go around and away from intersection 1000. This traffic flow could, for example, be used by emergency services to allow emergency services vehicles to approach the traffic congested intersection, and also allows the traffic intersection to be cleared more quickly.

[00275] Controlling the operation of the traffic intersection 1000 shown in Figures 25 to 44 will now be described, specifically with reference to controlling bicycles in bicycle lanes, in addition to controlling vehicles as described above.

[00276] A four lane by six lane intersection is shown in Figures 25 to 28, including bicycle lanes as described above, the number of lanes being calculated by counting the number of vehicle lanes distally from the distal intersection zone and adding half a lane for each track. Figures 25 to 28 each represent a separate sub-phase, with Figures 25 and 26 forming part of the first main phase and Figures 27 and 28 showing the second main phase. In the embodiment shown in Figures 25 to 28, a center island 1220 is provided at the intersection region 1200, with four bicycle holding zones 1230 being provided around the periphery of the island. Figure 29 shows an enlarged view of Figure 27.

[00277] During the first subphase of the first main phase shown in Figure 25, vehicles traveling in straight lanes 1320 and reconfigurable lanes 1370 moving directly along the intersection in an east-west direction are signaled to proceed, while the Vehicles in straight-forward lane 1320 and reconfigurable lane 1370 moving directly over the intersection in a north-south direction are signaled to stop. Simultaneously, vehicles in right-turn lanes 1310 that are turning right off the east-west aligned highway will be signaled to proceed, while vehicles in left-turn lane 1330 that are turning left on the east-west aligned highway will be signaled to stop. Bicycles in bicycle lane turn left 1392, bicycle lane turn right 1394, and bicycle lane move straight 1396 of east-west aligned highways will be signaled to proceed, bicycles in bicycle lane turn right proceeding to associated bicycle waiting zone 1230. Bicycles in U-bend bicycle lane 1398 of east-west aligned highways will be signaled to stop.

[00278] Simultaneously, vehicles in the approach lane to turn right 1610 of the east-west aligned highway will be signaled to stop at the distal crossing zone and vehicles in the receiving lanes 1340 will be signaled to proceed through the distal crossing zone 1400 Bicycles in bicycle receiving lane 1380 are signaled to proceed along distal crossing zone 1400.

[00279] Vehicles that are received in the receiving lanes 1340 of the north-south aligned highway 1100 are signaled to proceed along the distal crossing zone, while vehicles in the approach lane to turn right 1610 of the north-south aligned highway are signaled to stop before the distal crossing zone.

[00280] Bicycles in bicycle receiving lane 1380 of the north-west aligned highway will be signaled to proceed along the distal crossing zone.

[00281] Bicycles in bicycle lane to turn left, bicycle lane to turn right 1394 and bicycle lanes to move in a straight line 1396 of north-south aligned highways will be signaled to stop, while bicycles in bicycle lane to turn in the U of this highway will be signaled to proceed.

[00282] The second subphase of the first main phase is shown in Figure 26, where the vehicles in the straight lanes 1320 and in the reconfigurable lanes 1370 that move directly across the intersection in the east-west direction are still signaled to proceed, while Vehicles in straight lanes 1320 and reconfigurable north-south lanes 1370 are still signaled to stop. However, bicycles in straight ahead bicycle lane 1396 and right-turn bicycle lane 1394 are signaled to stop, while vehicles in left-turn lane 1330 that are turning from the east-west lined highway will be signaled to proceed, together with bicycles in bicycle lane turning left Vehicles in right-turning lane 1310 that are turning right from the east-west aligned highway will be signaled to stop to avoid collisions with vehicles turning left.

[00283] In addition, vehicles in the receiving lanes 1340 and bicycles in the receiving lane for bicycles 1380 of the north-south aligned highway 1100 are signaled to stop before the distal crossing zone, while vehicles approaching the lane to turn to the 1610 right of the north-south aligned highway are signposted to proceed over the distal crossing zone in preparation for the second main phase.

[00284] The first subphase of the second main phase is shown in figure 27, where vehicles in lanes to go straight 1320 and in reconfigurable lanes 1370 to move directly over the intersection in an east-west direction are signaled to stop, while the vehicles in lanes to go straight 1320 and reconfigurable lanes 1370 to move directly over the intersection in a north-south direction are signaled to proceed. The vehicle and bicycle signaling device configurations will merely be the reverse of the first and second sub-phases of the first main phase described above, with the signaling for each of the north-south and east-west highways being reversed. In this regard, the first subphase of the second main phase will be the same as the second subphase of the first main phase, with the highway directions reversed (i.e. changing from east-west to north-south), while the second subphase of the second phase will be the same as the first sub-phase of the first main phase, but with the highway directions reversed.

[00285] The second subphase of the second main phase is shown in Figure 27. This corresponds to the second subphase of the first main phase, as shown in Figure 25, but with the north-west road signs aligned and the east-west highways aligned inverted.

[00286] A six lane by six lane intersection is shown in Figures 30 to 34, including lanes as described above, the number of lanes being calculated by counting the number of vehicle lanes distally from the distal intersection zone and adding half a lane to each bike lane. Figures 30 to 33 each represent a separate sub-phase corresponding to those shown in Figures 25 to 28, with Figures 30 and 31 being part of the first main phase and Figures 32 and 33 showing the second main phase. However, in the embodiment shown in Figures 30 to 34, bicycle holding zones 1230 are provided around the periphery of the intersection region 1200, and outside the bicycle lane to go straight. Figure 34 shows an enlarged view of Figure 31.

[00287] Another intersection of six lanes by six lanes is shown in Figures 35 to 38, with each of Figures 35 to 38 representing a separate subphase corresponding to those shown in Figures 25 to 28 and Figures 30 to 33. However, the intersection The traffic intersection in Figures 35 to 38 differs from the traffic intersection in Figures 30 to 34 by providing the central island with peripheral waiting areas for bicycles.

[00288] In an alternative embodiment, it is envisaged that, in addition to the described subphases, a third subphase can be provided, during which all turns for bicycles or cars on a roadway are stopped, while pedestrians can cross that roadway at the intersection of pedestrians.

[00289] Figures 39 and 40 show an eight-lane by eight-lane traffic intersection 1000 in which more than one right-turn lane 1310 and left-turn lane 1330 is provided. Figure 40 is a close-up view of Figure 39. As seen in Figure 40, the bicycle receiving lane 1380 extends between the innermost right turn lane 1310 and the outermost receiving lane 1340.

[00290] Figures 41 and 42 show another eight lanes through a 1000 lane traffic intersection similar to that shown in Figures 39 and 40, but including bicycle waiting zones that are aligned around the periphery of the intersection region, and specifically , out of the lanes that vehicles in straight lanes would use to cross the intersection.

[00291] Figures 43 and 44 each show an eight-lane highway extending from the intersection region to illustrate how the outer lanes can be reconfigured as parking spaces, similar to the modalities shown in figure 9. How can As can be seen in figures 43 and 44, where a pair of right-turn lanes and/or left-turn lanes are provided, one of the right-turn and/or left-turn lanes can be reconfigured as an off-road parking lane. peak traffic hours. It should be noted that the embodiment of Fig. 43 includes a left-turn bicycle lane 1392, a right-turn bicycle lane 1394, a straight-line bicycle lane 1396, and a U-turn bicycle lane. 1398; while, in contrast, the embodiment shown in Fig. 44 only includes a U-curve bicycle lane 1398 and a bicycle approach lane 1390.

[00292] Accordingly, and with reference to Figures 8 and 23, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the distal crossing zones 1400 can be used in a larger grid of traffic intersections 1000 to divert traffic away from a region of 1200 obstructed intersection.

[00293] In the modality shown in figure 52, and as explained above, the lanes can be reconfigured as vehicle parking. To allow for this reconfiguration, it is envisaged that the traffic guidance system 3000 will control the visual signaling devices that signal the bicycle lane to turn left 1392 and the bicycle lane straight 1396 to operate in a red or stop condition. , thus stopping the movement of all bicycles in these lanes.

[00294] Likewise, in the embodiment shown in figures 53 to 61, to allow some of the reconfigurable lanes to operate as reconfigurable parking lanes 1372, as described above, the traffic guidance system 3000 will control the visual signaling devices that signal the 1370 reconfigurable lanes to operate in a red or stopped condition, thereby stopping movement of all vehicles in those lanes in any direction.

[00295] It is envisaged that, using a traffic intersection 1000 and traffic guidance system 3000, as described above, vehicles can be safely guided by visual signaling devices through the intersection region 1200 and the distal intersection zone 1400 , without vehicle drivers having to rely on their judgment. Additionally, by having the right-turn lanes distal to the distal crossing zones in the far left lane of Highway 1100, the center lanes can be reconfigurable lanes 1370, allowing for greater flexibility in traffic management.

INTERPRETATION IN AGREEMENT WITH:

[00296] As described in this document, 'according to' can also mean 'as a function of' and is not necessarily limited to integers specified in relation to these.

DATA BASE:

[00297] In the context of this document, the term database and its derivatives may be used to describe a single database, a set of databases, a system of databases, or the like. The database system may comprise a set of databases where the set of databases may be stored in a single implementation or spanning multiple implementations. The term database is also not limited to referring to a certain database format, but can refer to any database format. For example, database formats can include MySQL, MySQLi, XML or similar.

WIRELESS:

[00298] The invention can be carried out using devices conforming to other networking standards and for other applications, including, for example, other WLAN standards and other wireless standards. Applications that can be accommodated include IEEE 802.11 wireless LANs and links and wireless Ethernet.

[00299] In the context of this document, the term wireless and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communication channels, etc., which can communicate data through the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation through of a non-solid medium. The term does not imply that the associated devices do not contain wires, although in some embodiments they may not. In the context of this document, the term wired and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communication channels, etc., which can communicate data through the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation through a half solid. The term does not imply that the associated devices are coupled by electrically conductive wires.

LAW SUIT:

[00300] Unless specifically indicated otherwise, as apparent from the discussions below, it is understood that, throughout discussions of the descriptive report, using terms such as processing, computation, calculation, determination, analysis or the like, refer to refers to the action and/or processes of a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and/or transforms data represented as physical, such as electronic, quantities into other data similarly represented as physical quantities.

PROCESSOR:

[00301] Similarly, the term processor can refer to any device or part of a device that processes electronic data, for example, from records and/or memory to transform this electronic data into other electronic data that, for example, can be stored in registers and/or memory. A computer or a computing device or a computing machine or a computing platform may include one or more processors.

[00302] The methodologies described herein are, in one embodiment, executable by one or more processors that accept computer-readable code (also called machine-readable) containing a set of instructions that, when executed by one or more of the processors, are carried out in at least one of the methods described here. Any processor capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken are included. Thus, an example is a typical processing system that includes one or more processors. The processing system may further include a memory subsystem including main RAM and/or static RAM and/or ROM.

COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM:

[00303] In addition, a computer-readable carrier may form or be included in a computer program product. A computer program product may be stored on a computer usable transport medium, the computer program product comprising a computer readable program medium for causing a processor to perform a method as described herein.

NETWORK OR MULTIPLE PROCESSORS:

[00304] In alternative embodiments, one or more processors operate as a stand-alone device or may be connected, for example, in a network to another processor(s), in a networked deployment, one or more processors may operate in the capacity from a server or a client machine in a client-server network environment, or as a peer-to-peer machine in a peer-to-peer or distributed network environment. The one or more processors can form a web device, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine.

[00305] Please note that although some diagrams only show a single processor and a single memory that carries machine-readable code, technicians will understand that many of the components described above are included but not explicitly shown or described so as not to obscure the inventive aspect. For example, while only one machine is illustrated, the term "machine" should also be understood to include any collection of machines that individually or together execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed here. .

ADDITIONAL MODALITIES:

[00306] Thus, one embodiment of each of the methods described in this document is in the form of a computer-readable transport medium carrying a set of instructions, for example, a computer program that is for execution on one or more processors. Thus, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, embodiments of the present invention may be incorporated as a method, an apparatus such as a special purpose apparatus, an apparatus such as a data processing system, or a computer readable transport medium. The computer-readable transport medium carries computer-readable code including a set of instructions that when executed on one or more processors cause the one or more processors to implement a method. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a method, an all-hardware embodiment, an all-software embodiment, or an embodiment that combines both software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the present invention may take the form of a transport medium (e.g., a computer program product on a computer readable storage medium) carrying computer readable program code embedded in the medium.

MEANS OF TRANSPORT

[00307] The software can also be transmitted or received over a network through a network interface device. Although the transport medium is shown in an exemplary embodiment as being a single medium, the term transport medium should be understood to include a single medium or multiple means (e.g., a centralized or distributed database and/or associated caches and servers ) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term "transport medium" should also be understood to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or transporting a set of instructions for execution by one or more of the processors and that causes one or more of the processors to execute any one or more of the methodologies of the present invention. A transport medium can take many forms, including, but not limited to, a non-volatile medium, a volatile medium, and a transmission medium.

IMPLEMENTATION:

[00308] It will be understood that the steps of the methods discussed are performed in one embodiment by an appropriate processor (or processors) of a processing system (i.e. computer) executing instructions (computer readable code) stored in storage. It will also be understood that the invention is not limited to any particular implementation or programming technique and that the invention can be implemented using any appropriate techniques to implement the functionality described herein. The invention is not limited to any particular programming language or operating system.

MEANS TO PERFORM A METHOD OR FUNCTION

[00309] In addition, some of the embodiments are described in this document as a method or combination of elements of a method that can be implemented by a processor of a processor device, computer system or by another means of performing the function. Thus, a processor with the necessary instructions to carry out such a method or element of a method forms a means for carrying out the method or element of a method. Furthermore, an element described herein of an embodiment of apparatus is an example of a means for performing the function performed by the element for the purpose of carrying out the invention.

CONNECTED

[00310] Likewise, it should be noted that the term connected, when used in claims, should not be interpreted as imitative only for direct connections. Thus, the scope of the expression a device A connected to a device B should not be limited to devices or systems where an output of device A is directly connected to an input of device B. This means that there is a path between an output of A and an input of B which may be a path including other devices or means. Connected can mean that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact, or that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other but still cooperate or interact with each other.

MODALITIES:

[00311] Reference throughout this specification to an embodiment or an embodiment means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the appearance of the phrases in a modality or in a modality in various places throughout this specification does not necessarily refer to the same modality, but it can. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[00312] Likewise, it should be understood that in the above description of examples of embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped into a single embodiment, figure or description thereof for the purpose of simplifying disclosure and assisting in understanding one or more of several inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, should not be construed as reflecting an intent that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly cited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, the inventive aspects are less than all features of a single embodiment previously disclosed. Thus, the claims that follow the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim by itself as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[00313] Furthermore, although some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features from different embodiments must be within the scope of the invention and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, in the claims that follow, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

SPECIFIC DETAILS

[00314] In the description provided in this document, several specific details are presented. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this description.

TERMINOLOGY

[00315] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be used for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms thus selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to fulfill a similar technical purpose. Terms such as forward, backward, radially, peripherally, up, down and the like are used as words of convenience to provide points of reference and should not be construed as limiting terms.

DIFFERENT OBJECT INSTANCES

[00316] As used in this document, unless otherwise specified, the use of the ordinal adjectives first, second, third, etc., to describe a common object, simply indicates that different instances of similar objects are being referred to and are not intended to imply that the objects thus described must be in a certain sequence, whether temporally, spatially, in classification, or in any other way.

UNDERSTANDING AND INCLUDING

[00317] In the claims that follow and in the foregoing description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word comprises or variations such as comprise or comprise is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the declared features, but not preclude the presence or addition of other features in various embodiments of the invention.

[00318] Any of the terms: including or in which includes or which includes as used in this document is also an open term that also means to include at least those elements/features that follow the term, but do not exclude others. Thus, to include is synonymous with and means to understand.

SCOPE OF THE INVENTION

[00319] Thus, although what is believed to be the preferred embodiment of the invention has been described, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and additional modifications can be made thereto, without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all those changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas provided above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality can be added or deleted from block diagrams and operations can be exchanged between function blocks. Steps can be added or deleted to the described methods within the scope of the present invention.

[00320] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention can be embodied in many other forms.

CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER

[00321] For the purpose of this descriptive report, where the method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps must be performed in chronological order in that sequence, unless there is no other logical way to interpret the sequence.

MARKUSH GROUPS

[00322] Furthermore, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush Groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is also so described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush Group.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[00323] It follows from the foregoing that the provisions described are applicable to the traffic management industries.

Claims (10)

1. Traffic intersection characterized by comprising an intersection of at least two multilane highways, at least one of the highways including at least three or more spaced traffic lanes adjacent to each other; an intersection region where the intersection roads overlap; at least one of the intersecting roadways comprising a proximate region in which the roadway approaching the intersection defines a plurality of proximal traffic lanes, the proximal traffic lanes including: one or more selected from: a straight-going lane to guide passengers vehicles approaching the intersection region to move straight through the intersection on the same highway; and a left-turn lane to guide vehicles approaching the intersection region to turn left at the intersection onto an intersection highway; at least one receiving lane for receiving vehicles moving from the intersection region to the highway; and at least one right-turn lane to guide vehicles approaching the intersection region to turn right at the intersection onto the intersection highway; wherein the right-turn lane is spaced from said at least one or more selected from the straight-going lane and the left-turn lane by at least one receiving lane; a distal crossover zone, distal from the proximal region; a distal region, distally from the distal intersection zone, in which the roadway defines a plurality of distal traffic lanes, including at least: at least one right-turn approach lane configured to guide vehicles approaching the distal intersection zone from the distal region to at least one lane to turn right; and wherein the at least one right-turn approach lane is located to the left of most of the distal traffic lanes. 2. Traffic intersection, according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the highways comprises five or more lanes and at least one or more of the lanes to go straight are configured as a reconfigurable lane. 3. Traffic intersection, according to claim 2, characterized in that at least one or more of the reconfigurable lanes are configured to be reconfigurable as one or more selected from: a) a traffic lane in which the direction of travel of the vehicles is reversible; b) at least one or more vehicle parking lanes. 4. The traffic intersection of claim 1, characterized in that the straight-going lanes are configured to guide vehicles along the intersection in a straight line to at least one or more straight-going receiving lanes. 5. Traffic intersection, according to claim 1, characterized in that the nearby region further comprises at least one or more lanes to turn left configured to guide vehicles to turn left at the intersection to the intersection highway. 6. Traffic intersection, according to claim 1, characterized in that the neighboring region further comprises one or more selected from: a) a plurality of left-turn lanes, wherein at least one or more of the left-turn lanes left are reconfigurable between a traffic lane for use during peak hours and a parking lane during off-peak hours; and b) a plurality of right-turn lanes, wherein at least one or more of the right-turn lanes are reconfigurable between a traffic lane for use during peak hours and a parking lane during off-peak hours. 7. Traffic intersection, according to claim 1, characterized in that the traffic intersection includes a receiving lane for bicycles to receive bicycles that have crossed the intersection region, the receiving lane for bicycles extending between the lane to turn to the right right and the receiving range in the near region. 8. Traffic intersection, according to claim 1, characterized in that the traffic intersection includes at least one or more bicycle waiting zones to turn right in the intersection region to guide bicycles that wish to turn right at the intersection, in that the waiting zones for bicycles to turn right are located next to a central island in the intersection region. 9. Traffic intersection, according to claim 1, characterized in that the distal region includes at least one or more approach lanes to go straight to guide vehicles directly over the distal crossing zone and in one of the lanes to go straight. 10. Traffic intersection, according to claim 1, characterized in that the traffic intersection includes a traffic guidance system configured to guide vehicles in one of two phases, and in which the two phases are selected from: a phase in that all vehicles along one of the intersecting roadways are signaled to move straight through the intersection and to turn from the road they are on to the intersecting roadway, while all vehicles are prevented from crossing the distal crossing zone to move into the lane to turn right; a phase where all vehicles along the other of the intersecting roadways that are moving in a direct line and/or turning right and/or turning left are signaled to stop at the intersection region, while vehicles in the far lane stop right turns are signaled to move over the distal intersection region to the proximal right turn track.