FLIR Systems today announced the launch of the FLIR ThermiCam™ V2X, a thermal traffic sensor for the emerging vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology market. The FLIR V2X-enabled traffic sensor for urban traffic will allow vehicles and traffic infrastructure to communicate and share data in a system that aims to improve motorist, pedestrian, and bicyclist safety and efficiency.
V2X technology is an emerging crash avoidance system that relies on the communication of information between nearby vehicles and traffic infrastructure to warn drivers about potentially dangerous situations. In a V2X system, both the vehicles and infrastructure have communication units installed to transmit information. The FLIR ThermiCam V2X mounts on existing traffic signals and detects vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists at intersections using thermal imaging data. Utilizing dedicated short-range communications (DSRC) technology, vehicles transmit real-time speed and direction data, while the ThermiCam V2X communicates the presence of pedestrians and bicyclists, along with data from other vehicles.
The ThermiCam V2X can prioritise traffic signaling at busy intersections and arterial roads for emergency and public transport vehicles, ultimately improving traffic flow and safety for all drivers. Also, because the ThermiCam connects with existing city traffic systems, city traffic planners can future-proof traffic infrastructure and avoid major investments in retrofitting technology.
FLIR President and CEO James Cannon said: “As car manufacturers design V2X technology into future vehicles, FLIR technology is being deployed today to ensure cities are ready for their arrival.
“By detecting pedestrians, bicycles, and vehicles in real time, while also enabling communication between vehicles and traffic infrastructure, FLIR ThermiCam V2X will play a critical role in improving the movement and safety of the world’s roadways.”
FLIR will demonstrate the ThermiCam V2X sensor at Intertraffic 2018 in Amsterdam at booth #10.403, from 20 to 23 March 2018. The product is available for testing today, with general availability starting in the second half of 2018.
